Saudis cut ties with Libya over radar plane criticism

By
With Analysis from Monitor Correspondents around the world,
Edited by Randy Shipp /
October 29, 1980

Bahrain

Saudi Arabia broke off diplomatic relations with Libya, which had denounced the kingdom for obtaining US radar surveillance planes. Saudi Arabia is the second Arab country this month to sever ties with Libya, which has openly supported Iran in the war. Iraq cut diplomatic relations with Libya and Syria Oct. 11, accusing them of airlifting weapons to Iran. Libya's leader, Col. Muammar al-Qaddafi, said the lim holy places in Saudi Arabia, and also called for a holy war to liberate Mecca.